Self Defense Starts with the Mind

Self Defense Starts with the Mind

Self Defense Starts with the Mind“It is better to avoid then to run, it is better to run then to de-escalate, it is better to de- escalate then to fight, it is better to fight then to die” Miller, Rory Kane. Facing Violence. Wolfeboro, NH: YMAA Publication Center, 2011. Print.

Despite all the aggression and intensity, and stress drills when we train in Krav Maga, I will avoid a fight whenever possible every single time and only fight if it is the absolute last resort. This may not have the same weight or sound as cool as me saying: “I will destroy all who oppose me”, but the reality is I don’t enjoy hurting people. Violence is, in fact, the exact opposite of my nature and I can confidently speak on behalf of the rest of the Instructors here at Blue Titan Fitness and Self Defense in saying that they feel the same way. We train so that we don’t have to fight, so that we can walk with confidence, our head held up high and be able to pay attention to our surroundings.

Self-Defense first starts with the mind, learning to follow your instincts and being more aware of your surroundings. This should be your first step before having to run away, raise your voice or throw a strike. When you’re out walking it can be just as easy as avoiding the dark alley, or the group of people that look suspicious. Put your phone down and pay attention! If the butterflies start flapping in your stomach…listen to them! If the hairs on the back of your neck start to stand on end, it is your bodies fight of flight instincts trying to tell you something; so once again, put the phone down, pick up your head and LISTEN TO IT!!!

Yes I agree that this may not sound as bad ass or cool, especially if you grew up in the era of movies with Schwarzenegger, Stallone and other 80’ action heroes. For the longest time I thought it would be cool and bad ass to be in a fight and knock some random guy out with a punch. However, the reality is, it’s not, and there are repercussions for our actions.
In the end the main reason that any of us should train and learn self-defense is so we don’t have to ever use it. BOOM!